Hundreds of people throughout Milwaukee withstand the heat to protest GOP debate

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Much of the Republicans' excitement over the debate was countered by several protests throughout the city.

For hours Wednesday, hundreds of protesters withstood the heat to speak out against the Republican candidates specifically, and the Republican agenda in general.

There were immigrants, musicians, and union workers among them, all fighting in different ways to make their voices heard.

The first demonstration began at 4:00 P.M., four blocks from Fiserv Forum.

Michael Elvord, an SEIU member, said, "I don't think the Republicans, with their rhetoric and the programs they have, are for the Black and brown community."

Then they took to the streets. Several labor groups, including SEIU and the Fight for $15 movement, demanded GOP candidates prioritize working people.

Union member Adrianna Pittman said, "I feel like they're going to listen to our complaints and get stuff done."

Kenosha Pastor Jonathan Barker led the second protest, just blocks away from Fiserv Forum.

His group called on candidates and moderators to address climate change. "None of these candidates have any plan to protect our future from the climate emergency."

The third protest assembled at Red Arrow Park, where organizers said the GOP agenda is not welcome in Milwaukee.

Different groups supported immigrant rights, reproductive rights, voting rights, and workers' rights.

Richard Tremarello, a union musician, said, "We kind of see this as them coming in and trying to influence independent voters. So we want to show them we're still here."

They, too, marched to Fiserv Forum.